Sanders Changes Colorado Play-Caller Amid Struggles

Boulder, CO – Facing a sputtering offense and a mid-season slide, Colorado Buffaloes head coach Deion Sanders has made a significant coaching change, reassigning offensive coordinator Sean Lewis from play-calling duties and elevating veteran NFL coach Pat Shurmur to take the reins.

The move, which became effective before Colorado’s October 28th home game against UCLA, was confirmed by Sanders himself following the 28-16 loss to the Bruins. Lewis, initially a high-profile hire for Sanders and a key figure in the Buffaloes’ early-season offensive surge, will now focus solely on coaching the tight ends for the remainder of the season.

Taking over the critical role of offensive play-caller is Pat Shurmur, who joined Sanders’ staff earlier this year as an analyst. Shurmur brings a wealth of NFL experience, including stints as a head coach and offensive coordinator for multiple franchises, and was on the sideline directing the offense against UCLA.

Sanders attributed the switch to the team’s offensive struggles, particularly their inability to establish a consistent running game and put points on the board. “We weren’t running the ball consistently, and we were struggling to score points,” Sanders stated, echoing frustrations that have mounted as the season progressed.

The Buffaloes’ offense had managed 20 points or fewer in three of their last four contests leading up to the UCLA game. Nationally, Colorado ranked near the bottom of FBS teams in rushing offense, averaging just over 70 yards per game, and had given up a league-worst 44 sacks protecting quarterback Shedeur Sanders through eight games. This lack of balance and protection has visibly hindered their offensive production.

Lewis arrived in Boulder from Kent State, where he served as head coach and was known for an up-tempo, pass-heavy “Air Raid” style offense. His initial impact at Colorado was notable, helping the team to a surprising 3-0 start with a high-flying passing attack that gained national attention. However, as the schedule intensified, the offense struggled to adapt and maintain consistency, particularly on the ground.

Shurmur’s extensive NFL resume includes offensive coordinator roles with the St. Louis Rams (2009-2010), Philadelphia Eagles (2013-2015), Minnesota Vikings (2016-2017), New York Giants (2018-2019), and Denver Broncos (2020-2021). He also had head coaching tenures with the Cleveland Browns (2011-2012) and the New York Giants (2018-2019). His pro-style background and emphasis on a balanced attack represent a stark contrast to Lewis’s collegiate spread scheme.

The coaching adjustment comes as the Buffaloes, who captivated the college football world with their dramatic transformation and surprising early success, have cooled off considerably. After starting 3-0, Colorado lost four of their next five games, falling to a 4-4 record after the UCLA loss. With four games remaining in the regular season, including crucial matchups against Arizona, Washington State, and Utah, the Buffaloes are fighting for bowl eligibility. The hope in Boulder is that Shurmur’s experience and a fresh perspective on play-calling can provide the spark needed to revitalize an offense that has become too predictable and inefficient.